Athaya Prita Belia (Aya)
Writing at the intersection of alternative soundscapes and cultural studies.
Athaya Prita Belia is a Master of Arts in Literary and Cultural Study student at Universitas Airlangga, and a music scholar, focusing on metalcore music and subculture.She is the creator of Senandika, an independent music zine.
About
Hello, I'm Aya.
I'm a Master of Arts in Literary and Cultural Study student at Universitas Airlangga, and a music scholar.My work primarily focuses on the alt/prog scene, particularly metalcore music. I'm passionate about fostering deeper connections within the music community, constantly striving to make it better through research, writing, and supporting alternative voices.I'm also the creator of Senandika Zine, a DIY music zine rooted in the metalcore scene. I started this project as a way to document and reflect on the music and its people ; hopefully, a piece of living history that metalheads can one day look back on. Beyond music, Senandika also delves into personal topics like mental health, body image, and the quiet struggles.
Reach me below:
Senandika Zine
Senandika was born in June 2023 in Surabaya; first as a form of escapism from a filtered world, flattened culture, and machine-like routines.
Senandika celebrates individuality and authenticity in music; no more elitism.
Senandika now focuses on discussions around metalcore and its subcultures.
But perhaps, in the future, it can grow to become something even more.
Connect with Senandika Zine:
Published Pieces
Just scroll down and click the link if you want to read it. Happy reading! ❤️-Ketika Kata “Skena” Bergeser Makna, Itulah Saat Subkultur Mati dimakan Algoritma
Semut Api Media, 10 February 2026, Indonesian
The word "scene" is popular among Indonesian youth until it becomes a cliché. According to Stolk (2026), it’s a warning to reclaim control and humanize taste once again, in a time when algorithms and AI are recommending things to us and shaping our tastes.-Ketika Media Mainstream Tak Dapat Diandalkan, Di Manakah Ruang Solidaritas?: Berkaca dari Kasus Luigi Mangione
Semut Api Media, 30 November 2025, Indonesian
When Luigi Mangione was portrayed as a cold-blooded murderer by the mainstream media, openly revealing their stance, where can we turn for solidarity and truth in this post-truth era? To social media. English translation is available here.-Artificial Intelligence yang Jadi Wake-Up Call untuk Seniman?
Artchemist, 24 July 2025, Indonesian
As "AI artists" flood the scene, the emergence of AI can be a wake-up call for real artists: don't let social media traction stop you from creating.-Impor Summer Sonic, Siapkah Indonesia?
Harian Disway, 17 February 2025, Indonesian
Summer Sonic, the biggest Japanese music festival, is eyeing Indonesia; but are we ready? A reflection on the challenges and realities of local promoters.- Time to End the “Good-Girl Curse” with Better Pop Culture Products
Magdalene, 24 July 2019, English
From animation to soap operas, pop culture has brainwashed girls for ages with the good girl vs bad girl narrative.- Why I’m No Longer Talking to (Some) Men
Magdalene, 18 July 2019, English
From men who shout like a crazed monkey on the street, to colleagues with octopuses' hands who like to fat shame, these are men I refuse to talk to.- Pesan Kontes Kecantikan: Dunia Dirancang untuk Perempuan Cantik
Magdalene, 23 October 2018, Indonesian
I'm diving into the experience of being part of a beauty pageant crew and witnessing how the 'Beauty, Brain, and Behavior' criteria are missing from the auditions.Zine Collaborations:
- The Britpop Way: Eclectic, Strange, Odd
Elora, "Common People Press" issue. 15 August 2025, English Page 144- Drawing: This is The Land of Freedom Looks Like. Really?
Julie Setele, "Fuck The Fourth" issue. 8 July 2025. Drawing/Illustration
Research
Follow my academic journey, read all of my research through the platforms below.